Google recently announced layoffs across key teams like Flutter, Dart, and Python ahead of its annual I/O developer conference. While Google confirmed the layoffs, it did not disclose the specific teams or the number of employees affected. The company stated that these changes were part of its efforts to become more efficient and align resources with its biggest product priorities.
The Flutter and Dart teams were hit hard by the layoffs, with one PM stating that “a LOT of teams” were affected and many great projects lost people. However, Kevin Moore, a Google PM, reassured the community that Flutter and Dart were not affected more than any other teams. He emphasized that Google is committed to these projects and the ecosystem built around them.
The Python team also experienced layoffs, particularly those who managed the internal Python runtimes and toolchains and worked with open-source Python. Some of these employees were core developers and steering council members. A commenter on Hacker News noted that the Python team had been working with a small team for years, highlighting the challenges they faced due to understaffing. Despite this, they praised their managers for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
It is worth noting that Python has been widely used at Google for a long time. However, it was the last major backend language to have its own language team. The layoffs in the Python team raised concerns among some commenters on social media, as Python plays a significant role in AI development.
While Google did not provide specific details about the number of employees laid off, a WARN notice filed on April 24 hinted at possible layoffs. CNBC reported that a total of 200 people were let go across Google’s “Core” teams, including those working on Python and app platforms. Some jobs were reportedly being shifted to India and Mexico.
Despite concerns, Google clarified that it did not eliminate its Python team but instead replaced them with a new group based in Munich. This move was confirmed by Thomas Wouters, a member of the Python Steering Council. However, the transition was challenging for those who were laid off and had to train their replacements in a different country.
Google has stated that it will support affected employees by providing them with time to search for new roles, access to outplacement services, and severance packages. The company aims to comply with local requirements and ensure a smooth transition for the affected employees.
As Google prepares for its I/O developer conference, it has reassured the community that Flutter will have new updates to share. Despite the layoffs, Google remains committed to its innovative projects and its employees, focusing on its biggest priorities and simplifying its organizational structures.
